Terpene Spotlight: Sabinene
April 11, 2024
There are dozens upon dozens of terpenes within the cannabis plant, each one playing a direct role in how your weed tastes, smells, and makes
Author 
Aspen Noonan
CEO More about me
Medically reviewed by 
Elevate Editorial Team
- Updated on: April 9, 2025
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The caryophyllene terpene is one of the most well-known within the cannabis plant — but what does this terpene really have to offer?
Today, we’re taking a closer look at the caryophyllene terpene. Specifically, we’re exploring its role in cannabis, its flavor and scent profiles, and so much more.
Let’s start with the basics: what is caryophyllene and where do you find this compound naturally?
What is Caryophyllene and Where Do You Find It?
To get technical, caryophyllene is a natural bicyclic sesquiterpene that belongs to the class of organic compounds known as sesquiterpenoids. Thankfully, you don’t have to know all that.
For all intents and purposes, we’ll refer to caryophyllene as a plain ol’ terpene.
You find this terpene in many essential oils, particularly in clove oil, basil, hops, black pepper, and rosemary, among others.
Because of this, professionals often use this terpene as a flavoring agent in food and beverages. Additionally, caryophyllene is of interest in the field of aromatherapy and natural fragrance production. Truly, it’s quite a dynamic terpene.
Caryophyllene Smell and Flavor Profile
In general, caryophyllene has a complex aroma and flavor profile that many people describe as spicy, woody, and slightly peppery notes with hints of cloves and herbs.
Caryophyllene imparts a distinct spiciness reminiscent of cloves. This spicy note is warm and aromatic, similar to the aroma of cinnamon or nutmeg. There’s also a prominent woody undertone to caryophyllene, reminiscent of freshly cut wood or cedar. This woody aspect adds depth to its aroma and flavor profile.
The terpene exhibits a subtle peppery quality, which adds a mild pungency to its overall profile. This characteristic is reminiscent of black pepper and contributes to its complexity.
Finally, the caryophyllene terpene contains herbal nuances. Common herbal notes associated with caryophyllene include hints of basil, rosemary, and oregano, contributing to its aromatic complexity.
The Caryophyllene Terpene in Cannabis
The primary effect of the caryophyllene terpene in cannabis is its potential anti-inflammatory properties. Experts believe it interacts with CB2 receptors in the ECS, which are primarily associated with immune response and inflammation.
By binding to these receptors, caryophyllene may help reduce inflammation, making it potentially beneficial for conditions such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and neuropathic pain.
Additionally, caryophyllene may be helpful for its potential analgesic properties. By modulating pain pathways in the body, it may help alleviate various types of pain, including neuropathic pain and inflammatory pain. This means that this terpene may help you feel extra comfy.
Finally, caryophyllene may possess anxiolytic (or anti-anxiety) properties. So, if you’re looking for a calming, comforting strain, ones high in the caryophyllene terpene may be perfect.
What Strains Have High Levels of Caryophyllene?
Now that you know what the caryophyllene terpene can offer, we know what you’re thinking. What strains have high levels of caryophyllene?
Don’t worry: we’ll tell you. Here are five strains with high levels of the caryophyllene terpene:
- Bubba Kush: Bubba Kush is an indica-dominant strain known for its relaxing and sedating effects. It often has a rich aroma with notes of earthiness, sweetness, and spice, attributed in part to its caryophyllene content.
- Girl Scout Cookies (GSC): GSC is a hybrid strain famous for its potent effects and delightful aroma. It typically exhibits a complex terpene profile that includes caryophyllene, contributing to its spicy and herbal notes.
- Sour Diesel: Sour Diesel is a sativa-dominant strain that people cherish for its uplifting and energizing effects. It often contains high levels of caryophyllene, which contributes to its pungent aroma with hints of fuel, citrus, and spice.
- OG Kush: OG Kush is a classic cannabis strain popular for its potent effects and distinct aroma. Its terpene profile commonly includes caryophyllene, adding spicy and earthy notes to its overall scent.
- Gorilla Glue #4: Gorilla Glue #4, also known as GG4, is a potent hybrid strain that consumers value for its powerful euphoric effects and robust aroma. Its caryophyllene content contributes to its spicy and earthy profile, often accompanied by hints of pine and diesel.
Get Caryophyllene-Rich Strains With Elevate Holistics
If you’re hoping to try high-quality caryophyllene-rich strains for yourself, the best route to take is getting your medical marijuana card.
When you have a medical card, you don’t have to pay as much in taxes, and you’ll get medical-only discounts (and even services like cannabis delivery). This way, you can purchase top-shelf strains with high levels of caryophyllene for much cheaper than ever before.
You can get your medical marijuana card online in minutes with Elevate Holistics. Our telehealth doctors will help you get approved and registered with the state as quickly as possible.
This way, you can start enjoying the caryophyllene terpene in your cannabis strains ASAP.
Book your appointment by using the button below.
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